US Airlines Genealogies: Deregulation Startups 2

Another method of getting involved with the deregulated scheduled market was to transition from a charter airline. This route has been taken by several airlines (American Trans Air, Sun Country, Capital, Aero America and others) but has proven to be a tough route to success. Additionally there has been a continuous stream of airlines trying to compete on service levels rather than price. This has been a disaster however it hasn't stopped Air1, McClain, UltrAir, Legend, Regent Air, MGM Grand Air, Eos and MaxJet all trying it!

Midway Airlines was one of the first startups and survived a respectbale time however during that period it tried many routes from Chicago based startup, to buying the remains of Air Florida, business spin off (Metrolink) and Philadelphia based hub airline. Eventually its time ran out. Midway 2 had a similar tortuous life going from Raleigh Durham based hub airline to a regional player before its demise. Spirit has also changed its model however moving from a business airline to a low cost carrier has given it a chance to differentiate itself and it continues to be profitable.